Rome, Italy, Oct 13, 2004 / 12:00 am (CNA).- Cardinal Jaime Sin, Archbishop Emeritus of Manila and one of the most important figures in the country, was taken to the emergency room of the Cardinal Santos Medical Facility Monday after suffering a heart attack.

According to reports, the 76-year old Cardinal was undergoing dialysis when he suffered a heart attack and was transported to the intensive care unit of the hospital.

Hospital officials said Cardinal Sin was in critical condition and under constant observation.

Father June Sescon, the Cardinal’s spokesman, said the Cardinal’s condition had stabilized but was still worrisome.

Cardinal Sin was forced to retire for health reasons shortly before reaching his 75th birthday despite his great popularity and leadership both in the Church and in the country.

Pope John Paul II named Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales to replace him as Archbishop of Manila.